Speaking of experiments in simplification (see here), I found a perfect example in the New York Post. (Courtesy to their marketing team who had the bright idea of handing out free copies of the paper a few weeks ago.)

The chart on the left bas been a staple of the Calculated Risk blog; it contains a wealth of information and by itself, it is a well-made chart. When the New York Post reported the November job loss statistic, the editors simplified the chart, which is shown on the right. When I saw this chart, I applauded: by reducing the picture down to its essential elements, they succeeded in getting their message across more proficiently.

Here are the changes that make the chart:

Focusing on the last three recessions, as opposed to all past recessions